David Martindale admits to missing coaching but confirms his return to the Livingston dugout is only temporary. The 52-year-old sporting director begins an interim spell as manager, alongside Frankie McAvoy, for Friday's Championship visit to Greenock Morton. Glenn Whelan was dismissed after the West Lothian side lost three of their first five league matches.

Martindale stated he will step in as long as needed but insists this is not a long-term role. "I've made that kind of crystal clear. That ship's sailed. I miss coaching, but long-term, I think we need to be looking elsewhere rather than Davie Martindale," he said.

The move probably buys time to bring in a permanent replacement. Livingston were relegated after a miserable top-flight campaign, winning just two of 38 games, but secured promotion last season via the play-offs after losing only six league matches. Martindale added that the club's expectations are to win the league.

With the team fifth in the league after losing three of five, he said the side will "cast the net a wee bit wider" in search of a new head coach, targeting experience and expertise in different markets.